Paying for College
Resource Center

How Much Will College
Actually Cost?

While a large percentage of college students qualify for some form of aid, The bottom
line is that you won't know what your financial obligation will be until after you:

• Are accepted
• Apply for financial aid
• Receive your financial
  aid award letter

Bottom line: a financial aid award, your ultimate, out–of–pocket costs may dramatically decrease from the original sticker price.

Grants can come from the state, government or the college you are attending, and do not require repayment. Scholarships also don't have to be repaid. Student loans are borrowed funds that must be repaid with interest after graduation.

Private loans for students and parents are offered by private lenders to help cover college expenses. Private loans for college may allow you to borrow up to the total cost of attendance.

Parents can benefit from expert advice on financial aid, understanding college costs, and discovering colleges that offer the best value.